How to Wash and Care for Merino Bras

By Merino Wool Clothing | icebreaker® | Published: 2026-10-22

Category: Tips & Care

Learn how to wash and care for your merino wool bras to keep them soft, supportive, and odor-free. Simple steps to extend their life.

Quick answer

Wash your merino bras by hand or on a gentle machine cycle in cold water with a mild wool detergent, then lay them flat to dry. This preserves the fabric's softness, shape, and natural odor resistance.

Why merino bras need special care

Merino wool bras like the Women's Merino 150 Siren Bra are made from lightweight, breathable fibers that regulate temperature and resist odors. However, the same delicate structure that makes them comfortable also makes them prone to stretching, pilling, or losing elasticity if washed aggressively. Hot water, harsh detergents, and machine drying can damage the fine merino fibers and break down the spandex content that provides support. Gentle care keeps the bra fitting well and performing longer.

How to wash and care for your merino bra

Check the care label: Look for the specific washing instructions on your bra's tag. Most merino bras, including the icebreaker Siren Bra, recommend cold water and mild detergent. Ignore the care label and you risk shrinking or felting the wool.
Choose hand washing or a gentle machine cycle: Hand wash in cool water with a small amount of wool-specific detergent. If using a machine, place the bra in a mesh laundry bag and select the delicate or wool cycle with cold water and low spin. Never use hot water or a regular cycle—heat and agitation can distort the bra's shape and weaken the elastic.
Use a mild wool detergent, not regular laundry soap: Regular detergents often contain enzymes, bleach, or harsh surfactants that strip natural oils from merino fibers. A pH-neutral wool wash or a gentle liquid detergent designed for delicates is safer. Fabric softener is unnecessary and can coat the fibers, reducing breathability and odor resistance.
Rinse thoroughly and remove excess water gently: Rinse with cool water until no soap remains. Press the bra between two clean towels to absorb moisture—do not wring or twist, which can stretch the fabric. Wringing can permanently misshape the cups and straps.
Dry flat away from heat and sunlight: Lay the bra flat on a drying rack or a clean towel in a well-ventilated area. Avoid radiators, direct sunlight, and tumble drying, as high heat shrinks merino wool and damages elastic. Hanging a wet merino bra can stretch out the straps and band.
Store folded, not hung: Once dry, fold the bra and store it in a drawer. Hanging can stretch the straps over time, especially with lightweight merino bras that lack heavy padding. For long-term storage, keep it in a breathable cotton bag to prevent dust buildup.

Product facts

Women's Merino 150 Siren Bra: The Merino 150 Siren Bra uses lightweight Merino Corespun fabric that is naturally odor resistant and helps regulate body temperature. This means you can wear it multiple times between washes without it holding smells, reducing wash frequency and wear on the fabric.
Women's Merino 150 Siren Bra